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This module on the production function explores the relationship between a firm's inputs and outputs. It distinguishes between variable and fixed inputs, highlighting the short run and long run concepts. In the short run, at least one input is fixed, whereas all inputs can vary in the long run. Total product (TP) and marginal product (MP) are discussed, showing how TP increases with additional labor but may experience diminishing returns. Graphical representations illustrate the dynamics of TP and MP. This foundational concept is crucial in economics for analyzing production efficiency.
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AP Economics Mr. Bernstein Module 54: The Production Function November 3, 2014
AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein The Production Function • The relationship between and firm’s inputs and outputs • In general, the relationship is positive
AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Input and Output • Variable Inputs: can be increased to increase production • Fixed Inputs: cannot be increased in the near term to increase production • The short run: at least one input is fixed. The time period that is too brief for a firm to alter its plant size (capital is fixed) • The long run: all inputs may vary A period of time long enough for a firm to vary all inputs, including capital (ie plant size) • Time of “long run” varies by firm
AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Total Product • TP (or Q) • Production function shows TP at various levels of a variable input or inputs (ie labor, raw materials) and fixed input (capital) • Typically increases rapidly at first (ie as new workers are hired) but as opportunities to specialize have been implemented, will rise slower…and eventually turn downward
AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Marginal Product • The additional output produced as a result of hiring one more unit of the input • MPL = (Δ Total Output)/(Δ Labor) • MPC = (Δ Total Output)/(Δ Capital) • MP = slope of TP curve • TP curves demonstrate Diminishing Returns to Inputs • As more and more of a variable input is added to a fixed input, the additional output produced will decline • Not due to inferior quality of inputs
AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Total Product Presented Graphically • MP can be diminishing but TP keeps rising until MP<0
AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Marginal Product Presented Graphically • MP is diminishing , and therefore TP rising, until QL ~= 6.5